25 Oct

How to build the perfect gravel garden

A gravel garden is an excellent low maintenance option that is relatively easy to prepare and design. Follow these guiding steps and you’ll have the perfect gravel garden in no time!

How to prepare the ground for a gravel garden

Before you think about laying any gravel, you’re going to need to prepare the ground correctly:

  1. Remove all plants, including weeds, from the area that your gravel garden will take up. If you want to keep any of the plants you remove, make sure that you don’t sever their roots and place them in planting pots for temporary storage whilst you finish your gravel garden.
     
  2. Add manure or compost in order to improve the fertility of the soil. Dig around 10cm deep using a rake or till in order to mix the compost and soil together. If you encounter any large stones, set them aside – you might want to incorporate them as a decorative stones in your gravel garden!
     
  3. Dig and install a border to separate your gravel garden from the rest of your lawn. You should look to dig around 10-15cm deep and install your edging so that it’s level with or just above the ground - this will help with drainage. Please note that this step is only necessary for dense soil types, such as clay.
     
  4. Install a weed membrane. Simply measure the area required and cut the weed membrane to size, leaving around 7.5cm overlap on each edge of your gravel garden. You should then weigh the edges of the membrane down using rocks or landscaping staples.

How to create your gravel garden

  1. Choose the garden gravel you want to use. Check out your local gravel suppliers to select the type of gravel you want to use for your gravel garden. Please note that around 40kg of 20mm gravel will cover one square metre at 2 inches deep. If your gravel garden is unevenly shaped, then measure a square around it and save leftover gravel for filling in any holes that appear later in the year.
     
  2. Place your plants in the desired positions. Once you’ve grouped your plants into the desired locations on your gravel garden, cut individual squares into the membrane large enough for each plants' roots once the flaps are folded back. Then, place the plants into their allotted section and fold the flaps back over the top of the soil before watering generously.
     
  3. Lay the gravel. Before you begin spreading your gravel, make sure that you place your focal points first, such as any large rocks or pots, wherever you want them. After these have been placed, you can commence spreading the garden gravel evenly over the membrane using a rake.

Follow these steps and you'll be left with the perfect gravel garden to show off to your friends and family.

We are your leading local gravel suppliers in Dorset. Browse our range of products online, available for delivery and collection, or contact our team today with any enquiries on 01258 857465.

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30 Nov
Why you should consider driveway gravel
Your driveway is the first thing that a guest will encounter when approaching your home, which is why you want it to look good. Installing driveway gravel is a great cost-effective way to leave an impression and has a host of other benefits too. Attractive Driveway gravel looks more natural compared to alternatives such as tarmac and brick, which can run the risk of looking industrial. Driveway gravel holds a rural charm which can add a lot of character to both countryside and city homes. The addition of driveway gravel seems to compliment nature rather than suffocate it. We supply a broad range of driveway gravel in a range of colours and sizes, which means that chances are you’ll find the right gravel to compliment your home exterior in our store.   Cost-effective Driveway gravel is the most pocket-friendly option for filling driveways around. Not only is the installation of driveway gravel quick and cheap, it will also save you money in the long run, as maintenance costs are incredibly low. Unlike tarmac or brick, driveway gravel will not crack, and outside of rarely filling in holes with more low-cost gravel, it will last forever. Weather Resistant Other driveway options, like concrete and tarmac, react negatively to dramatic changes in temperature like frost, heavy rain and intense sunlight. Severe weather will often cause them to crack, especially when they cover a large surface area and they will end up fading in colour over time. This is why driveway gravel is a fantastic option, as it is pretty much impervious to the weather and requires no extra drainage assistance. All in all, driveway gravel is a fantastic option when it comes to laying your driveway that should not be overlooked. To find out more about the range of products we offer, from building materials and decorative stones to shingle & gravel and driveway materials, contact our team today on 01258 857465 or take a look at our special offers!
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12 Jun
How to create a low-maintenance garden
Are you getting tired of moving the lawn and weeding? Are you looking for a more low-maintenance garden this summer? There are many of us who love to idle away the hours tending to our gardens, but there are also many of us who dread the onset of summer, as our gardens require a lot of maintenance. Typically, the most dreaded garden tasks tend to be mowing the lawn and weeding, which needs to be done on a weekly basis over the summer. If you are looking to curtail your time in the garden, why not consider creating a low-maintenance gravel garden? If the thought of weeding fills you with dread, then why not consider replacing your earth borders with gravel for an attractive but easy maintenance garden. To create a gravel garden, you need to: Clear the designated area Remove the existing planting from your borders or from the designated area. If you want to keep some or all the plants, then place them to one side. The Edge You will be looking to place your gravel where the lawn borders meet your current planting space. Here, you will need to add an edge, such as an monoblock mowing strip. This will provide you with a nice rounded curve which will compliment your gravel layout. Preparing your borders Once your edging has been done, you can then prepare your borders. Start by digging over the borders to introduce air into the soil which will make it easier to work with. Take this as an opportunity to improve the health of your soil. If your soil is looking quite heavy, then you can look to add some peat free compost which will help break it up a bit. You might want to add a granular fertiliser too at this stage. Don’t forget to rake through the soil so that it is spread evenly to avoid any bumps in the gravel. Laying membrane Further to preparing your borders, you can now start to lay out your membrane, in most instances, you can utilise weed membrane which is a fabric woven matting which essentially blocks out light to weeds and will keep the soil separated from the gravel. The membrane also allows water to pass through the woven material and into the soil. Border planting You can now take the plants that you wish to include in your new gravel garden and place them in your position of choice. You will find that it is best to plant in pockets of gravel where you can create small islands of plants surrounded by gravel. Here, you can also plant through the membrane, simply cut a cross in the membrane which is large enough to accommodate the plant and place the plant in the soil. Once the plant is immersed in the membrane, fold back the edges of the membrane so that it seals around the plant. Lay down the gravel Now you can start dressing the membrane with gravel, you can opt for either small piece of gravel or larger pieces of gravel. At MB Wilkes, we have a wide range of gravel and shingle that are suitable for gardens, walkways and driveways. You may want to consider 2-6mm shingle gravel which is a light golden flint shingle gravel or go a little larger with 10mm ravel which is approved by the National Trust. MB Wilkes provides gravel and shingle up to 40mm. Get decorative Once your gravel is in place, you can look to accessorise your new gravel layout with garden ornaments. You can also look to add texture by incorporating different textures and colours to add interest. Whether you go for an all-over gravel garden, or you just incorporate some gravel to parts of your garden, this will certainly reduce the maintenance of your garden, giving you more time to relax and enjoy the summer!   To find out more about the range of products we offer, from building materials and decorative stones to shingle & gravel and driveway materials, contact our team today on 01258 857465 or take a look at our special offers!
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1 Apr
4 Questions to ask yourself when planting near Driveways, Patios and Walks
When it comes landscaping, most will agree that the functionality of a given outdoor space is just as important as its appearance. For this reason, it’s important to include specific areas like driveways, patios and walks that will be effective in providing space for a wide range of different requirements such as outside dining or getting from one end of the garden to the other. Planting around such structures can be pretty challenging, even for the more experienced gardeners. Let’s take a look at 4 questions that you need to ask yourself when planting near walks, patios and driveways. How wide will your plants grow? Although a path will look rather picturesque when lined with lovely shrubs and bushes, it takes some planning to choose plants that will not overgrow the path and make it difficult to walk on. Before purchasing shrubbery for your landscaping design project, ensure that your variations will not grow outrageously wide and need constant clipping. How high will your plants grow? If plants grow higher than anticipated they may overgrow architectural features or end up obstructing the view. Before you plant trees anywhere near a path or a driveway, bear in mind that branches can hang low and get in the way. Will hanging branches cause issues? Keep plants that have rigid branches or thorns away from areas where people or vehicles could get scratched. In this instance, beauty matters less than a practical approach. What if it snows? If you live in an area that experiences heavy snowfall you’ll have to take this into consideration. Plant trees with big hanging branches away from driveways, patios and walkways as, should the branches snap due to the heavy weight of falling snow, it may just cause injury to someone or damage to vehicles etc. Before taking your garden tools from the shed and lining your driveway with big shrubs and trees, you need to ask yourself each of the four questions that have been outlined above. To find out more about the range of products we offer, from building materials and decorative stones to shingle & gravel and driveway materials, contact our team today on 01258 857465 or take a look at our special offers!
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Most Recent Stories

13 Nov
How can soils and aggregates stop flooding?
If you're wondering how to stop garden flooding, whether you're a keen gardener or managing farmland, we've got a straightforward seven-step plan that works brilliantly. British weather can be unpredictable, and those heavy downpours are inevitable, but improving your soil structure makes all the difference. At MB Wilkes, we know a thing or two about soils and aggregates. Following these seven simple steps will help reduce flooding risks and keep your outdoor space in top condition, so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying your garden or growing successful crops year after year. 1. Minimise Tillage So, how does soil prevent floods? It all starts with tillage. When you minimise soil disturbance, you're helping it develop better structure and aggregation, which means it acts like a natural sponge during heavy rainfall. Well-structured soil absorbs and retains water brilliantly rather than letting it run off and cause flooding. Reduced tillage also preserves organic matter, which is fantastic for improving water-holding capacity and overall soil health. The more organic matter your soil contains, the more water it can store, keeping your garden or farmland protected during those inevitable British downpours. 2. Limit Farm Traffic If you're wondering how to stop a clay garden flooding, timing your farm traffic makes a real difference. Heavy machinery like tractors and combines compacts the soil, reducing pore space and making water infiltration much harder. Compacted soil behaves like a hard surface, increasing runoff during rainfall and worsening flooding risks. By limiting traffic to dry periods and avoiding movement when conditions are wet, you'll maintain better soil structure that absorbs water more effectively. It's a straightforward step that protects your soil's natural drainage capacity and keeps your land in better condition year-round. 3. Manage Drainage Proper drainage management is essential for preventing flooding in both rural and urban settings. A well-designed drainage system redirects water flow away from vulnerable areas that are prone to waterlogging, protecting your soil and plants from excess moisture. Whether you're managing a large farm or a residential garden, effective drainage prevents water from accumulating in problem spots and causing damage. By channelling water to appropriate areas, you maintain healthier soil conditions and reduce the risk of standing water that can harm crops, plants, and landscape features during periods of heavy rainfall. 4. Use Cover Crops, Green Manures and Mulches Knowing how to stop garden flooding often comes down to what you plant between your main crops. Cover crops, green manures, and mulches are brilliant for improving soil structure and reducing water runoff. As they decompose, they add valuable organic matter that helps soil absorb more water, preventing surface flooding during heavy rain. These protective layers also shield bare soil from rainfall impact, minimising crusting and allowing better water infiltration. Here's what they offer: Enhanced soil structure and water retention Reduced surface runoff and erosion Improved organic matter content Better water penetration during downpours 5. Use Grass Leys to Improve Organic Matter Grass leys (fields planted with grasses and legumes) are fantastic for enriching soil and great if you’re wondering how to stop garden flooding naturally. As these plants decompose, they add organic matter that creates better soil structure capable of holding more water during heavy rainfall. The extensive root networks they develop promote soil aggregation while reducing compaction, leading to improved water infiltration and storage. 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Give us a call on 01258 857465 or complete our contact form if you have any questions or concerns.
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29 Oct
Visit Our Product Display for Inspiration
Planning a garden project can feel overwhelming when you're trying to visualise how materials will look. That's why we at MB Wilkes created our display area at Henbury Quarry, near Wimborne, where you can see, touch, and experience our full range of decorative aggregates and landscaping materials in real-world settings. See Our Products in Action Walking through our display area gives you the chance to see how different aggregates, gravels, and decorative stones actually look when they're laid out properly. We've used our own products to create various garden features, pathway designs, and landscaping ideas that demonstrate the versatility and visual impact of quality materials. You'll find everything from subtle natural blue slate that’s perfect for Japanese-inspired gardens to bold decorative chippings, like our polar ice chippings, that create dramatic focal points, all arranged in ways that might just solve that tricky design problem you've been pondering. Take a seat on our benches, which are made from robust oak sleepers (another product we stock), and really take your time exploring the possibilities. There's no pressure here, just plenty of inspiration. Touch, Feel, and Compare Materials One of the biggest advantages of visiting our display area is being able to physically handle the materials before you buy. Photographs online can only tell you so much, but when you can run your hands through different grades of gravel, compare the colours of various decorative stones in natural daylight, and see how textures work together, you'll make much better choices for your project. We find that customers who visit our display area leave feeling more confident and excited about their plans, knowing exactly what they're getting and how it will complement their existing garden features or property style. From Inspiration to Installation Everything you see in our display area is available to purchase and take away with you immediately, which is brilliant if you're ready to crack on with your project straight away. We can also arrange delivery if you're ordering larger quantities or multiple products, saving you the hassle of transport and ensuring your materials arrive safely and on schedule. Our team is always on hand to discuss quantities, calculate what you'll need for your specific project, and provide practical advice based on our 60 years of experience as a family-owned quarry. Beyond our decorative range, we stock comprehensive materials for every stage of your landscaping or construction work: Amenity and landscaping materials for transforming outdoor spaces Sundries for all those miscellaneous items you’ll need on a job Sub-base products to ensure proper drainage and stability Primary sand and gravel for groundwork and concrete mixing Recycled aggregates offering cost-effective and environmentally conscious alternatives Whatever your project demands, we have the materials and expertise to support you from ground preparation right through to those finishing decorative touches. Explore More Before You Visit If you'd like to browse our full product range before visiting, take a look through our online shop, where you'll find detailed information about everything we stock. Our gallery showcases completed projects and different material applications, while our weighbridge section explains how we handle bulk orders for trade customers and larger residential projects. Ready to Get Started? Whether you're planning or ready to purchase, visiting our display area at Henbury Quarry is the perfect next step. For directions, opening times, or to discuss your project requirements, call the friendly team at MB Wilkes today on 01258 857465 or use our contact form. And while you’re here, explore our current special offers online too. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.mbwilkes.com/blog/article/visit-our-product-display-for-inspiration#/" }, "headline": "Visit Our Product Display for Inspiration", "description": "Planning a garden project can feel overwhelming when you're trying to visualise how materials will look. That's why we at MB Wilkes created our display area at Henbury Quarry, near Wimborne, where you can see, touch, and experience our full range of decorative aggregates and landscaping materials in real-world settings.", "image": "https://www.mbwilkes.com/files/thumbs/62a54fe7-7974-4d2d-9be6-80db654c88eb_w650_h400.jpg?1761736902", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "MB Wilkes", "url": "https://www.mbwilkes.com/" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "" } }, "datePublished": "" }
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21 Aug
The ultimate guide to choosing gravel and shingle
How to Choose and Plan the Perfect Gravel Driveway Are you planning a gravel driveway but feeling overwhelmed by the choices available? You're not alone in wondering how to choose and plan the perfect gravel driveway that combines functionality with aesthetic appeal. At MB Wilkes, we've been helping homeowners navigate these decisions for over 60 years as a family-owned quarry. Our comprehensive guide will walk you through everything from material selection to design considerations, ensuring your new driveway becomes a beautiful and practical addition to your home. With our consultative approach and National Trust-approved gravel products, we'll help you deliver a driveway that perfectly suits your needs and budget. Understanding Gravel and Shingle Types Now that you're ready to explore your options, let's examine the difference between gravel and shingle and understand the various types available. Gravel particles typically start at around 5mm, whilst anything smaller is classified as sand. However, our shingle range begins at 2mm-6mm, offering you greater flexibility for different applications. Our signature light golden flint shingle showcases beautiful brown and yellow tones, making it perfect for creating warm, welcoming driveways. The difference between shingle and gravel lies primarily in size and application, with our range extending up to 40mm varieties ideal for drainage and soakaways. These natural materials come in numerous shapes, sizes, and colours, giving you tremendous versatility for your project. Different types of gravel and shingle serve specific purposes: smaller particles work brilliantly for decorative areas, whilst larger stones excel in functional drainage applications. For a deeper dive into selecting the ideal material, we've covered the pros and cons of various options in our comprehensive gravel guide, helping you understand which type suits your specific requirements. Choosing the Right Material for Your Project Here we're going to focus on matching the perfect material to your unique situation. When considering gravel vs shingle for your project, think about your space requirements and intended use. Shingle gardens often benefit from finer particles that create smooth, walkable surfaces, whilst larger gravel works excellently for vehicular access. Colour coordination plays a crucial role in your material selection. Neutral driveway materials like grey, beige, or white complement most home exteriors beautifully, blending seamlessly with existing architecture. However, if you're seeking to create a statement feature, consider our coloured options or even combine different materials for added visual interest. Quality considerations shouldn't be overlooked when making your choice. Our National Trust approval demonstrates our commitment to supplying materials that meet the highest standards for both durability and aesthetic appeal. The decision when comparing gravel vs shingle ultimately depends on your specific needs: shingle offers a more refined appearance perfect for formal settings, whilst gravel provides robust functionality for high-traffic areas. Both options deliver excellent long-term value when selected appropriately for your project's requirements. Design and Planning Considerations To learn more about creating the perfect layout, let's explore the essential planning elements for your gravel driveway. Planning a gravel driveway requires careful consideration of several key factors that will determine both its functionality and visual appeal. Consider these crucial design elements: Space and Shape Assessment: Decide between curved pathways for a softer, more natural appearance or clean, straight lines for contemporary appeal Multi-Car Requirements: Calculate width needs for side-by-side parking to eliminate daily car shuffling Visual Integration: Choose whether your driveway should serve as a focal point or blend harmoniously with surrounding landscaping Accessibility Considerations: Ensure adequate turning circles and comfortable gradients for all users Those wanting a permeable driveway design should also account for proper drainage requirements, particularly if your property experiences heavy rainfall. The natural permeability of gravel makes it an excellent choice for sustainable water management, reducing surface runoff whilst maintaining an attractive appearance. Balancing functionality with aesthetic appeal often means considering how your driveway connects with existing garden features, pathways, and architectural elements. In fact, we even have a blog that discusses how to build the perfect gravel garden – definitely worth a read. This thoughtful approach to planning a gravel driveway ensures your investment enhances your property's overall value and kerb appeal. Technical Requirements and Installation Tips Moving on to the practical aspects, proper gravel installation requires attention to specific technical details that ensure longevity and performance. Slope limitations are particularly important: we recommend avoiding loose gravel on gradients exceeding 1:10, as steeper inclines can lead to material displacement and maintenance issues. For gentle slopes that fall within acceptable limits, polythene hexagon mesh provides an excellent solution. This mesh sits approximately 40mm beneath the gravel surface, creating stability whilst maintaining the natural appearance of your driveway. Proper ground preparation forms the foundation of successful gravel installation, requiring adequate excavation, base material application, and compaction. The pallet-dragging method creates that perfectly raked finish, redistributing gravel evenly across the surface. Regular maintenance also prevents weed growth and maintains the professional appearance that makes gravel such an attractive, low-maintenance option for busy homeowners seeking both beauty and practicality. Making Your Final Decision As you approach your final choice, several factors will help you determine the best solution for your specific situation. Our consultative approach means we'll work closely with you to match products perfectly with your project requirements, ensuring optimal results. Key decision factors include: Budget Considerations: We offer cost-effective options without compromising on quality, helping you achieve excellent value Long-Term Maintenance: Gravel driveways provide brilliant low-maintenance solutions compared to alternative materials Expert Guidance: Our 60+ years of experience as one of the UK's leading landscaping suppliers ensures you receive knowledgeable recommendations The gravel vs shingle decision often comes down to your specific aesthetic preferences and functional requirements. With an extensive range including countless types of gravel and shingle, you’re assured of exceptional performance that meets your preferences and a driveway that’s properly specified and installed. Our commitment to excellent customer service means we'll guide you through every aspect of your decision, ensuring your investment delivers lasting satisfaction. Transform Your Property with Quality Gravel Planning a gravel driveway becomes straightforward with 60+ years of family expertise. As one of the UK's leading suppliers, we offer excellent customer service and competitive prices on quality materials. Whether you're deciding how to choose and plan the perfect gravel driveway or ready to order, our team provides personalised recommendations. Contact us on 01258 857465 or complete our contact form for expert guidance and current special offers.
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Family-Owned BusinessFamily-run business supplying quality aggregates for over 60 years.
Family-Owned Business
Family-run business supplying quality aggregates for over 60 years.
Trusted Team of Experts Our expert team of trusted experts is ready to help with all your needs.
Trusted Team of Experts
Our expert team of trusted experts is ready to help with all your needs.
Fully Equipped Fleet We provide fast local delivery with tipper trucks and grab lorries.
Fully Equipped Fleet
We provide fast local delivery with tipper trucks and grab lorries.
Superb Range of Aggregates Small load aggregate collections available directly from our quarry.
Superb Range of Aggregates
Small load aggregate collections available directly from our quarry.

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